The Western Bulldogs have registered their first win of the 2022 AFLW campaign, defeating Richmond by 17-points at Whitten Oval on Sunday.

Celebrating their Pride Game in front of 2,159 fans, the Bulldogs put in a gutsy display, kicking away in the second half to record an important first up victory.

Kirsty Lamb was prominent and continued her stellar form with 27 touches, while skipper Ellie Blackburn led from the front with 19 touches and a goal.

Eleanor Brown was rock solid in defense intercept marking at will, while Bailey Hunt returned from injury with a consistent performance.

A solitary goal through Nell Morris-Dalton edged the Dogs ahead in the opening quarter, before Bonnie Toogood burst into the fixture taking a number of high-flying grabs and kicking a goal in the second term. 

The second half was all the home side, kicking two goals to none and opening up a strong lead heading into the last.

Despite a gallant effort from the Richmond outfit, the Dogs proved too strong to run out 4.6 (30) to 1.7 (13) victors.

The special fixture encapsulated plenty of colour and excitement, celebrating the LGBTQIA+ community as well as donning the Pride guernsey during the game.

Furthering the celebrations, coach Nathan Burke managed to enjoy his birthday with a victory.

The Bulldogs will next face Adelaide at Norwood Oval on Sunday.

WESTERN BULLDOGS   1.2     2.2     4.6   4.6 (30)
RICHMOND    0.2     1.3     1.5     1.7 (13) 

GOALS
Western Bulldogs:  Blackburn, Moody, Morris-Dalton, Toogood
Richmond: Brennan

BEST
Western Bulldogs:  Blackburn, Lamb, Toogood, Hunt, Grant, Brown
Richmond: Conti, J. Hosking, Shelving, Brennan

INJURIES
Western Bulldogs: Nil
Richmond: McClelland (ankle), Burchall (knee)

Reports: Nil
Crowd: 2159